Eyes of Faith

“Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.” I Thessalonians 5:16-18, NASB.

Lots of Last Frontier workers send out prayer calendars to networks of believers in the United States. Many times the answers to the prayers being offered are not clear-cut. But the prayers are being heard, and here is one instance that the answer was so tied to the prayer that it was unmistakable.

The very day that prayer warriors had been asked to lift up Bridget*, she and her boyfriend, Brooks, happened to drop in and participate in a Bible study. The Pacific Rim workers were stunned, because Bridget had persistently refused invitations to join in these discussion groups.

Not only did Bridget attend, she asked some searching questions. The passage under discussion was when Pilate asked, “What is truth? (John 18:38)” In the course of looking at the Bible, Bridget asked, “What is the Trinity?” and “Where does the Bible say that Jesus is God?” She also asked, “Why did Jesus have to be crucified and resurrected?” and “If sins are paid for on the cross, then why do good works after you are forgiven?” The questions kept coming. “”Why are there different translations of the Bible? What is the Sabbath? Which is more important: God’s justice or His love?”

Local believers used these questions to share many truths about God, and to give a clear presentation of the Gospel. The Pacific Rim personnel were about to burst with joy. The boldness and clarity that the local believers showed was yet another answer to prayer.

If you happen to be one of the thousands of Southern Baptists who get a prayer calendar from a field worker, and you have wondered if your prayers make a difference, then take heart from this story and wonder no more. Specific prayers offered with love and faith will not fail to register in the halls of heaven and release the power of God on earth. Bridget’s story is one of the visible answers, but so much more goes on that the human eye cannot see, but eyes of faith will bring it to light.

*Names changed for security reasons.

Pray that:

Bridget’s and Brooks’ people group will respond to the Gospel.

Prayer warriors in the United States and around the world will not grow weary in the ministry of intercession, but will take heart from the visible answers to their prayers and continue on with eyes of faith.

Pacific Rim workers will be diligent to share specific requests and answers to prayer to a growing network of intercessors.

Pacific Rim is a region of the International Mission Board, SBC.